Jetstar is implementing a significant change to its fare structure, requiring passengers to pay an additional fee for carry-on bags that will be placed in overhead lockers. The new policy, set to take effect on February 2, will see standard fares include only one small underseat bag weighing up to 10 kilograms.
Passengers who wish to bring a standard carry-on suitcase into the cabin for overhead storage will need to purchase a 'Priority Carry-on' option. This fee will range from $9 to $25 for domestic flights and can go up to $52 for international routes. Those who opt for 'Priority Carry-on' will also gain early boarding privileges.
Jetstar CEO Steph Tully stated that the airline anticipates this adjustment will expedite boarding and disembarking processes, as most passengers are expected to select the base fare. "By giving customers an underseat bag with the option to add Priority Carry-on, we can make better use of overhead locker space, streamline boarding and help more flights depart on time," Tully said.
Under the revised rules, if airline staff suspect a bag exceeds the 10kg weight limit, it will be weighed, and additional fees will apply. The airline is also transitioning from gate scales to bag-sizing frames, with manual weighing occurring only if bags appear to be over the limit.
If a passenger brings an oversized bag to the gate without the 'Priority Carry-on' purchase, and it does not fit the size limits or exceeds 10kg, it may be checked. If the bag is deemed oversized at the gate, passengers will incur a fee to have it stowed in the aircraft's hold.